At approximately 6:15 p.m. on Sunday, October 15, while the Tall Ship Oliver Hazard Perry was leaving the Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival, its two propellers became entangled by a dock line, resulting in the loss of engine power and colliding with four yachts on Newport Harbor.
Here’s video from the scene.
According to a press release from the OHP
“This afternoon, Tall Ship Oliver Hazard Perry will return to its permanent berth at Fort Adams, its intended destination last night. A diver has cleared the propellers, and both engines are operational.
In accordance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements, Tug Jaguar from Mitchell Towing in Fairhaven, Mass. will assist with the move while two other tug boats will be on standby for assistance.
The relocation process will begin when the tug boats arrive at approximately 3 p.m.
The four affected vessels are currently being assessed, and owners/captains have been contacted.
With its next programs scheduled for January, Perry will undergo U.S. Coast Guard-required sea trials later this week to ensure the ongoing safety of the ship and crew. All of Perry’s 2018 voyages and plans for festival participation are expected to continue as scheduled.”
It’s worth noting that the damage to the four boats struck by the Perry isn’t the only damage. Two cruise ships visiting Newport, the Crown Princess and the Seven Seas Mariner with over 5,000 cast and crew combined, were not able to access the ferry dock at Perrotti Park and therefor were unable to spend any money with our local restaurants and shops to help the local economy in the off season.
